Imagine a powerful ruler who expanded his empire through countless military campaigns and conquered vast territories, becoming the first Holy Roman Emperor. Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great. Born in the early 8th century, Charlemagne was a skilled military leader who rose to power as King of the Franks in 768 after succeeding his father. After his brother’s death, he became the sole ruler and embarked on a series of conquests, including the Lombard Kingdom, parts of Spain, and the Saxons in Northern Germany.

But that’s not all! On Christmas Day in 800, Charlemagne’s reign reached a new height when he was crowned Emperor of the Romans in Rome by Pope Leo III. This event marked the revival of the Western Roman Empire, creating the Holy Roman Empire, which profoundly impacted European history.

Charlemagne’s legacy didn’t end there. He also patronised learning and education, establishing a palace school and encouraging preserving and copying classical texts. His reign is often referred to as the Carolingian Renaissance. Additionally, he implemented legal reforms, including the creation of a legal code known as the Capitulare de villis, which addressed issues related to the governance of his estates.

Charlemagne’s death in 814 didn’t diminish his influence. His empire was divided among his grandsons, but his reign had a lasting impact on European history. He is remembered as a critical figure in forming the medieval European political and cultural landscape and is considered a symbol of Christian Europe during the Middle Ages.

Read about the Charlemagne Kennels here